A FORMER Hibernian Football Club star will be sharing his experiences of racism with pupils at Ross High School next month – and a former England captain could join in too.
Mickey Weir virtually visits the school on March 2 and 3 to present his talk to the school’s S2 pupils across five sessions, with pupils invited by their guidance teacher through a link on Google Classroom.
Each session runs for one hour and 40 minutes, with an event for the whole year group to follow the last session; it may be led by former England star Rio Ferdinand, who also promotes stamping out racism in football.
‘Show Racism the Red Card’ charity t-shirts, that have been worn and signed by high-profile Scottish Premiership football players, are also available as prizes for pupils who make the most positive contributions during the workshops.
Winger Mickey has revealed he experienced racism first-hand during his football career and it inspired him to join forces with education charity Show Racism the Red Card to stamp out discrimination in sport and society.
Mickey, a Show Racism the Red Card ambassador, said: “It is not easy but young people need to be really determined and just keep going, no matter how hard it gets.”
Mickey found himself bullied for being Scottish during a loan spell playing for Millwall in London.
He believes that sharing his story is important as it shows young people that anyone can be a victim of discrimination.
Mickey said: “We must challenge racism. It is hugely damaging behaviour.
“I heard the abuse thrown at black players when I played in England, it was not acceptable. We can’t have this hatred of people for their colour of skin, religion or whatever.”
Paul Reynolds, Ross High headteacher, said: “I am personally thrilled to be working with Show Racism the Red Card. I am certain that the workshops planned will be invaluable in helping our pupils to further develop their own character, in a positive and inclusive way.
“This will support the school’s work in tackling racism and help to further embed the school’s values of respect, integrity, perseverance and positivity.”
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